Physical Processes for Biologists

University of Reading

Course Description

  • Course Name

    Physical Processes for Biologists

  • Host University

    University of Reading

  • Location

    Reading, England

  • Area of Study

    Biology

  • Language Level

    Taught In English

  • Course Level Recommendations

    Lower

    ISA offers course level recommendations in an effort to facilitate the determination of course levels by credential evaluators.We advice each institution to have their own credentials evaluator make the final decision regrading course levels.

    Hours & Credits

  • ECTS Credits

    5
  • Recommended U.S. Semester Credits
    3
  • Recommended U.S. Quarter Units
    4

  • Overview

    Module Provider: Chemistry
    Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
    Level:4
    Terms in which taught: Spring / Summer term module
    Pre-requisites:
    Non-modular pre-requisites: Strength in A2 level Chemistry, or equivalent
    Co-requisites:
    Modules excluded: CH1FC1 Fundamental Concepts in Chemistry 1 or CH1FC3 Molecular Studies for the Life Sciences or CH1PH1 Physical Processes and Molecular Organisation
    Module version for: 2014/5
    Module Convenor: Dr Joanne Elliott
    Email: j.m.elliott@reading.ac.uk
    Summary module description:
    Aims:
    The module aims to provide students having a biological background with an understanding of the fundamental principles of Physical Chemistry as applied to biochemistry and biological systems.
    Assessable learning outcomes:
    Students should achieve a sound understanding of the principles of chemical equilibria in the gas and solution phases. They should be able to assess quantitatively basic thermodynamic and kinetic data and describe basic concepts.
    Additional outcomes:
    Work in this module will lead to improved numeracy and descriptive abilities.
    Outline content:
    J M Elliott (5 lectures) - Chemistry in the Balance - Equilibrium.
    The importance of equilibrium in chemistry and life. Equilibrium law; dynamic nature; gaseous and solution equilibria; acid-base equilibria; heterogeneous equilibria. The effect of temperature and a variety of simple calculations.
    A M Squires (5 lectures) - Chemical Kinetics
    The rate equation; order, rate constant and integrated rate equations; kinetics and mechanism; Arrhenius equation; more complex reactions and enzymic catalysis
    (5 lectures) - What makes Reactions go? Chemistry and Energy.
    Forms of energy; enthalpy, Hess's Law, qualitative approach to entropy and free energy, 2nd and 3rd laws of thermodynamics.
    Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
    Two one-hour lectures per week with approximately three workshop/seminars on related material.
    Contact hours:
    Spring Summer
    Lectures 15
    Seminars 9
    Guided independent study 72
    Total hours by term 96.00
    Total hours for module 96.00
    Summative Assessment Methods:
    Method Percentage
    Written exam 75
    Class test administered by School 25
    Other information on summative assessment:
    Students will attend workshop/seminars on the material covered in this module. Attendance is compulsory. Workshop problems will form the basis of the test held at the end of the term.
    One one hour test at the end of the spring term (week 29) based on workshop material 25%.
    Formative assessment methods:
    Penalties for late submission:
    The Module Convener will apply the following penalties for work submitted late, in accordance with the University policy.
    where the piece of work is submitted up to one calendar week after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for the piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
    where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.
    The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
    You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.
    Length of examination:
    1.5 hrs
    Requirements for a pass:
    A mark of 40% overall.
    Reassessment arrangements:
    Re-examination in August. All coursework marks will be carried forward and count towards the final resit mark.
    Last updated: 8 October 2014

Course Disclaimer

Courses and course hours of instruction are subject to change.

Some courses may require additional fees.

Credits earned vary according to the policies of the students' home institutions. According to ISA policy and possible visa requirements, students must maintain full-time enrollment status, as determined by their home institutions, for the duration of the program.

ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) credits are converted to semester credits/quarter units differently among U.S. universities. Students should confirm the conversion scale used at their home university when determining credit transfer.

Please reference fall and spring course lists as not all courses are taught during both semesters.

Please note that some courses with locals have recommended prerequisite courses. It is the student's responsibility to consult any recommended prerequisites prior to enrolling in their course.

X

This site uses cookies to store information on your computer. Some are essential to make our site work; others help us improve the user experience. By using the site, you consent to the placement of these cookies.

Read our Privacy Policy to learn more.

Confirm